Whakapapa

Dine at New Zealand’s highest restaurant.

Knoll Ridge Chalet pairs modern alpine design with panoramic views across the Central Plateau and straight out to The Pinnacles. Sitting high above the clouds at 2,020m, it’s one of the most iconic and unmissable experiences at Whakapapa.

Accessible only by the Sky Waka gondola, Knoll Ridge Chalet offers two distinct dining experiences; the Ngā Tohu Restaurant is our exclusive premium dining experience, while the Pātaka Café offers a quicker self-service option.

Take your seat for a premium dining experience high above the mountain at 2,020m.

Ngā Tohu Restaurant

With a reserved table waiting for you, and a chef-prepared three-course meal with wine pairing recommendations for each dish, Ngā Tohu is your chance to slow down, settle in and enjoy the best seat on the mountain.

Enjoy your choice of chef-prepared dishes across three courses, with wine pairing recommendations for each dish.

3 Course Meal Your Ngā Tohu dining experience	$99
Sky Waka Gondola Ride To get you up and back from the Knoll Ridge Chalet	Included
Reserved Table The best seat in the house will be waiting for you	Included

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Meet your chef.

New Zealand-born chef Ella McGill's culinary journey has come full circle.

Born and raised in Tongariro National Park Village, in the shadow of Whakapapa, Ella grew up immersed in mountain life before training classically in French cuisine at Le Cordon Bleu. From there, she built a career across some of Aotearoa's finest kitchens, private cheffing for an elite clientele, before opening the successful Umami Fusion Kitchen in Tauranga.

Most recently, she served as Executive Chef at the exclusive Minaret Station, one of New Zealand's most remote luxury lodges. Now returning to where her journey began, Ella brings together her classic French technique, an Eastern influence, and a deep love of exceptional New Zealand produce to Ngā Tohu. For her, food has always been about connection, and her menu is an invitation to gather, share stories, and taste the remarkable place we call home.

Your premium dining experience.

The important details to know before you arrive at Ngā Tohu.

BOOK YOUR TABLE ONLINE

Choose your preferred date and time using the booking system. Card details are required to secure your reservation but no payment is taken when you book. Late cancellations may be charged.

CHECK IN & JOURNEY UP THE MOUNTAIN

Arrive at Whakapapa at least 45min before your reservation and check in at the Whakapapa Shop to collect your passes. Then board the Sky Waka for the approx. 10min journey to Knoll Ridge Chalet at 2,020 m.

ARRIVE, CHECK IN & ENJOY

At the top of the Sky Waka, head inside Knoll Ridge Chalet to the Ngā Tohu check-in desk at least 5min before your reservation. We’ll welcome you and show you to your table. Payment is made at the restaurant after your meal.

Children at Ngā Tohu

Ngā Tohu is a set-menu dining experience. Children are welcome to join us when they are happy to enjoy the full set menu alongside their party.

All seated guests are required to book the set menu at the standard price. We do not offer a separate children’s menu or child pricing. Infants who do not require a meal or dining seat are welcome.

Our dining experience is best suited to children who are comfortable taking part in a full, multi-course set menu.

Pātaka Eatery

For a quick and easy bite, Pātaka Eatery offers relaxed self-service dining inside Knoll Ridge Chalet.

Grab a tray and choose from a changing selection of hot food, sandwiches, sweet treats and more, then find a table and enjoy the mountain views.

KNOLL RIDGE CHALET